A multicomponent approach to the synthesis of N-sulfonyl ß(2,3)-amino esters.

The multicomponent synthesis of α,ß-disubstituted N-sulfonyl ß-amino esters is described. It involves a zinc-mediated, cobalt-catalyzed three-component reaction between sulfonylimines, acrylates and organic bromides. A possible mechanism is proposed, emphasizing the intermediate formation of an organocobalt as the initiator of a Mannich-like process.